Before the start of the Spring 2026 semester, members of the (GMB), a registered student organization (RSO), traveled to Panama with a shared goal of providing essential medical care and conduct community health research in rural areas.

The expedition offered 37 students a unique opportunity for experiential learning, cultural immersion and leadership development outside the traditional classroom setting.

A Global Effort for Local Impact

Global Medical Brigades is a student-led organization dedicated to providing sustainable health care to under-resourced communities abroad. By mobilizing student volunteers and health care professionals, the chapter works to improve health outcomes and empower local communities through education and medical assistance.

“The Íű±ŹĂĆ chapter of GMB is part of a larger international movement that has facilitated over 1.5 million patient consultations globally over the past 20 years,” says Keona Bukhari-Adams ’27, the newly elected president of the chapter.

During the week-long brigade, students assisted health care professionals in treating over 250 community members who face significant barriers to medical access.

“Global Medical Brigades is a small part of a much larger global effort to assist rural communities with extremely low physician densities,” Bukhari-Adams says. “It has reshaped my understanding of culture and solidarity in ways that challenge traditional perceptions of what it means to live a life of wealth.”

Community-Driven Fundraising

To finance the mission, 37 student volunteers raised a total of $90,000, each with a $2,430 donation goal. Through local partnerships and personal advocacy, students engaged the Syracuse community to fund trip costs and essential medical supplies.

Becky Roby ’26, the chapter’s vice president, raised $2,030, while Ava Mastalir ’28, the vice president of membership and outreach, raised $2,500 through outreach to family and friends.

“This experience alone made me want to fundraise and participate in our next brigade,” Roby says. “Every trip is special in its own way and I was grateful that I was able to have another experience in Panama.”

On campus, the organization hosted several benefit nights where a portion of the proceeds supported the trip, including events at Chipotle, luv handlz and Purple Banana.

Clinical Care, Field Research and Community Engagement

The trip focused on clinical support and patient care. Students took vitals, assisted doctors in dental extractions for children and helped treat older patients who had not received physical checkups in years.

Students also participated in public health research and spent an entire day conducting community health surveys. This research involved interviewing local women about menstrual and sexual health to understand existing education gaps.

Participants sharpened their professional skills by navigating language barriers and learning local dialects to better console and educate patients. The brigade also worked with local leaders to ensure that disease prevention and hygiene education would have a lasting benefit for the community long after the students departed.

“The primary skill I learned in Panama was how to interact with patients who were nervous or confused, and how to care for them even with the challenge of a language barrier,” Mastalir says.

Leadership Opportunities and Friendships

The experience also served as a catalyst for student leadership on campus. Many participants, motivated by previous trips to Guatemala, utilized the Panama brigade to further their commitment to global health. Roby says the trip provides “hands-on experience in global health and service that cannot be replicated in a classroom.”

Beyond clinical experience, the brigade fostered a strong sense of community among the students themselves. For students considering future brigades, participants emphasize the value of stepping outside one’s comfort zone.

“I loved the friendships I built during the trip, and we still constantly stay in touch,” Roby says. “Being part of something so meaningful created a strong sense of community and belonging for me on campus.”

The Íű±ŹĂĆ Global Medical Brigades chapter continues to welcome students of all majors who are interested in global experiences and meaningful service.

Story by Kate Jackson ’26, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs

Spectrum News and the are launching a dynamic partnership that will provide students with hands-on experiences and professional development opportunities in journalism and media production.

The new initiative reinforces the Newhouse School’s commitment to working with newsrooms on innovative ways to support local news. Student-produced content will enhance Spectrum News coverage across the country and provide viewers with a look at top issues from the perspective of Newhouse student journalists.

“This collaboration brings real-world experience to the classroom and underscores our commitment to fostering the next generation of journalists,” says , executive vice president of Spectrum Networks. “We’re supporting students as they embark on their journalism careers and providing a pathway to create a sustainable future for local news, supported by these talented emerging reporters.”

Bair and  announced the joint initiative March 23 at the Toner Prizes Celebration in Washington, D.C., an event that honors the best political reporting. More than 40 Spectrum News journalists and executives then traveled to Newhouse for a March 26 panel discussion about the initiative, followed by about a dozen programs to help students better understand the challenges and opportunities of local newsrooms.

Sessions covered topics including investigative journalism, sports reporting, data analytics and building social media brands. Newhouse students also had the exclusive opportunity for reel and resume reviews with members of the Spectrum News team.

As part of the broader initiative, Spectrum News journalists will collaborate with Newhouse faculty to teach production and investigative journalism classes in Syracuse. Students will also have the opportunity to take part in an internship program that would place them in newsrooms across the country.

Organizers are also planning a distinctive field study program that will provide students the chance to report on significant events like the 2026 midterms from Washington, D.C., and coverage in Los Angeles of Major League Baseball and the 2028 Olympics.

“This unprecedented partnership with such a respected media platform will blaze a new trail in how news organizations and universities can work together to serve local communities,” Lodato says.

As part of the initiative, student journalism will be showcased across Spectrum News social media channels, along with web and mobile platforms, starting in the fall.

“Experiential learning has always been at the heart of a Newhouse education,” Lodato says. “This collaboration, which places our students alongside some of the best journalists in the business while reporting for real audiences, is exactly the kind of transformative opportunity that defines Newhouse’s legacy of excellence in journalism education.”

Students will produce local news coverage and an issues-based magazine show for Spectrum News networks, and student reporting will contribute to the Syracuse network’s daily on-air sports coverage. Additional content will be produced as the partnership develops, providing local student perspectives on the important issues of the day to Spectrum News viewers across the country.

“We are building a mutually beneficial partnership with the Newhouse School that supports both the professional development of emerging journalists and our recruiting efforts for Spectrum News,” says Paul Marchand, executive vice president and chief human resources officer at Spectrum. “Many Íű±ŹĂĆ alumni have gone on to become leaders and journalists at Spectrum News, and this collaboration will deepen those connections while helping us identify and nurture new talent for our newsrooms.”

When Tyler Neary ’27and Orion Goodman ’27 scattered flyers across campus last spring advertising a new AI club, they saw a critical need: students needed to be included in conversations about a technology that would fundamentally reshape their futures.

“AI was at the point where it could help people in every single major, in every single profession, in every single job,” says Neary, a civil engineering major who co-founded United AI with Goodman, a biomedical engineering major, both in the (ECS). “We realized this was no longer just a computer science thing.”

What started as a room of 10 people has grown into , a recognized student organization (RSO) with more than 100 members representing every single school and college and most majors. Since its fall semester launch, the club’s focus has been democratizing AI literacy and ensuring students from all disciplines have a seat at the table as this technology transforms society.

The group will host a on Saturday, April 25, from 1 to 5 p.m. in the K.G. Tan Auditorium in the National Veterans Resource Center at the Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello Building, featuring industry speakers, demonstrations and faculty research showcases.

Why Students Need Leadership in AI Development

For Goodman, the urgency became clear watching rapid AI development. “When I’m going through college, watching AI capabilities escalate, it can be disempowering—and I figured my peers may be feeling the same way,” he says. “It felt threatening because there’s a small group of people making decisions about how the technology is being used, and others feel like they’re being left behind.”

That sense of being sidelined drove the co-founders to create what Neary describes as an empowerment space. “Something that we say a lot in the club is: don’t get used by AI, use AI to your benefit,” he says. “We’re the ones who are going into the workforce leading the charge and determining how we will use this technology now and into the future.”

The message resonated. Within weeks of tabling at campus events, students from ECS, the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Newhouse School of Public Communications, the Whitman School of Management and the College of Visual and Performing Arts were showing up to meetings, eager to understand how AI would affect their fields and futures.

Bringing Humanities and STEM Into Conversation

When Alex Kahn ’27, a junior studying citizenship and civic engagement and political philosophy in the | , discovered United AI, he wasn’t looking for coding or technical skills, but was compelled by the policy implications of AI that were dominating news headlines. “AI was in every story, across every industry, and it felt like there was no escaping it and how it will affect you,” Kahn says.

As United AI’s recruitment director last fall, Kahn became instrumental in broadening the organization beyond its engineering roots. His approach focused on relevance rather than technical expertise. The interdisciplinary composition has transformed conversations within the club.

“Having people from different majors and disciplines means having that understanding that everyone’s mind works differently,” Kahn says. “The people who are writing code are not thinking the same way as the person majoring in fine arts, and having that creativity along with those technical skills, you’re able to build and think much differently.”

Goodman appreciates what non-engineering perspectives bring to the table. “As conversations around AI progressed, I began asking, ‘Where are the artists? Where are the policymakers? Where are the humanities majors?’” he says. “A lot of the population was not behind building this technology and still isn’t—but how do we provide a space for them to learn and join the conversation?”

From Concept to Creation: Student Projects Take Shape

United AI goes beyond theoretical discussion to hands-on application. Through four-week project cycles, students receive funding, access to premium AI tools and mentorship to develop their ideas.

Paige Siciliano ’29, a computer engineering major, led a second-place winning project during her first semester on campus. Her team’s AI-powered schedule builder, still under development, helps students manage their time by generating personalized daily plans based on individual learning styles, fixed commitments and flexible tasks.

For Siciliano and her teammates—Neha Redda ’29 and Ria Yagielski ’29—the project provided more than AI experience. “It really helped us find a way into the community of Syracuse, and it helped us feel like we belonged,” she says.

Building Community Around Shared Curiosity

Beyond projects and programs, United AI has cultivated what Kahn describes as “a school of thought on campus.” During a debate night last semester, members discussed everything from business applications to environmental impacts to personal usage philosophy, with some participants there simply to understand the technology rather than use it. “Being surrounded by club members and in this community of lifelong learners, we focus our educational efforts to not just learn the technical side, but also on practical application,” Kahn says.

Siciliano emphasizes the club’s welcoming atmosphere. “We came in as first-semester freshmen, two weeks into school. It didn’t matter if we had no background knowledge in AI or all the knowledge in the world—they create an atmosphere that makes you want to learn about it and continue to grow.”

To join United AI, . To learn more, follow the organization on or .

When students land a job interview or score a spot at a networking event, the last thing wants them worrying about is what to wear.

That’s the idea behind the Career Closet, a virtual professional styling service launched in spring 2025 through a partnership between the University’s career services team and MyCareerCloset. The program gives students access to curated boxes of up to six items of professional clothing shipped directly to their door, with the option to keep what they like at a steep discount or return everything for free.

“This was created to fill a key gap,” says Lindsay Mason, employer relations specialist and the program’s point person. “Many students don’t have access to affordable professional attire for job interviews, career fairs, networking events or immersion programs.”

The need is real and growing. Across U.S. colleges, increasing numbers of students struggle to cover the cost of business clothing on top of tuition, housing and everyday expenses. The Career Closet aims to take that pressure off the table entirely.

How It Works

Students start by visiting the , where they select a style category: masculine, feminine or gender non-conforming. Those who choose the gender non-conforming option can schedule a free 15-minute virtual styling consultation to help match them with the right fit and look.

From there, students complete a short form with their Íű±ŹĂĆ ID, program of study and sizes, then book an appointment with a stylist. Their box of items ships within five to seven business days. Students keep the box for 30 days, then either purchase items at up to 60% off retail or send them back with a prepaid shipping label, no dry cleaning required.

The service costs $60, but students enrolled in a degree-granting program may be eligible for a one-time voucher that covers the full cost of one box. To check eligibility, students can email Career Services at careers@syr.edu with the subject line “Career Closet Voucher.”

Why Virtual?

The partnership with MyCareerCloset was intentional. Planning began in summer 2024 and took a full semester to finalize before the spring 2025 launch. Going digital solved several challenges at once: it eliminated the need for physical inventory space on campus, ensured a wider variety of styles and sizes than a single closet could hold, and kept the selection current.

“They manage all the inventory, which is key when you consider space limitations on campus,” Mason says. “But it also ensures there is a variety of options for all students and the styles stay up to date.”

What’s Next

Career Services is now focused on spreading the word. Mason and her team are partnering with student-facing departments across campus and with school and college career centers to increase awareness.

“We feel strongly this is a worthwhile service that can benefit all students, regardless of background,” Mason says.

For students gearing up for spring recruiting season, a career fair or simply their first professional event, the Career Closet offers a practical starting point—and one less thing to stress about.

To learn more or get started, visit the or contact Career Services at careers@syr.edu.

The officially launched the Whitman Experiential Center this week, marking a major milestone in the school’s Transformation 2030 strategic plan and its commitment to preparing students through hands-on, relevant and applied learning.

The Experiential Center brings together the high-impact programs that define a Whitman education. Global immersions, case competitions, study away programs, class projects with companies, the Goodman IMPRESS professional development program and the Orange Business Angel Network are now aligned under one coordinated team and office.

As a central hub, the Experiential Center also works in close partnership with Whitman’s centers and institutes to expand access to high-quality experiential learning across all programs and levels.

The Experiential Center is built around four pillars that reflect what it means to be a Whitman student: Be Global, Be Innovative, Be Collaborative and Be Prepared. Together, these pillars ensure that every student, regardless of major or background, has access to experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.

“What we’re launching is not simply a new program or office,” says Whitman Interim Dean . “This is a defining commitment to the culture of Whitman and how we prepare students. Experiential learning is central to how we develop the skills, judgment and perspective our students need to lead. It is Transformation 2030 in action.”

is Whitman’s five-year strategic plan to elevate the school into the Top 25 undergraduate business programs rankings by 2030. Experiential learning sits at the center of that vision and constitutes a major area of investment. Experiential education is not an added feature of the student experience—it’s an essential centerpiece of how students learn to apply and practice their skills in realistic and meaningful settings at Whitman.

Director of the Experiential Center , who led the development of the center, says the four-pillar framework is designed to create a progression of experiences throughout a student’s time at Whitman.

“A student might begin with our first-year experiential AI course and use virtual reality in their sophomore management course to develop communication skills. From there, they might attend an immersion program in a major U.S. or global market, compete in a national case competition, work on a semester-long consulting project for a company, and later conduct due diligence on a new venture through the Orange Business Angel Network,” Draper says. “Each of those experiences builds on the last. Students aren’t just collecting experiences. They are building a track record of excellence and relevance.”

Whitman’s alumni and employer network plays a critical role in bringing these opportunities to life. Industry partners and alumni mentors help shape projects, coach student teams and open doors to new possibilities. As a result, students leave these experiences with more than skills. They leave with relationships, including mentors, collaborators and champions invested in their success.

To learn more about the Whitman Experiential Center and its programs, visit the  or email whitexp@syr.edu.

—March 24—is a day to celebrate all that it means to be Orange, to keep beloved traditions alive for students and keep building the community that makes Íű±ŹĂĆ extraordinary.

There are countless ways to support students—through greatest needs and deans’ funds in all of the University’s schools and colleges and through initiatives that benefit students Universitywide, across majors and disciplines.

Here are five unique ways you can make your impact on the Orange in support of experiences, community and traditions:

Since 23 students gathered at Crouse College on Feb. 4, 1901, the Íű±ŹĂĆ Marching Band has grown into one of the most celebrated collegiate bands in the nation. From its first football game appearance that fall to marching in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and performing at Super Bowl XLVIII, the band has represented the University on some of the world’s biggest stages.

The band earned its iconic nickname, The Pride of the Orange, in 1970, when an announcer introduced the band following its award-winning performance at the World Band Festival in Kerkrade, Netherlands. The name has defined the band ever since.

Today, with nearly 220 members drawn from five Central New York colleges (Syracuse, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Le Moyne College, SUNY Oswego and Onondaga Community College) and more than 80 majors, the band is far more than a performing ensemble. It is a cornerstone of Íű±ŹĂĆ life; it’s a community where students find lifelong friendships and carry the Orange spirit forward.

As the band marks its 125th anniversary, the College of Visual and Performing Arts is raising funds for new uniforms, which will debut at the Sept. 5, 2026, football home opener vs. New Hampshire. A generous donor has pledged an $85,000 matching gift, doubling every dollar contributed to this historic milestone.

Syracuse is home to more than 300 registered student organizations—from performance groups and cultural organizations to service clubs and everything in between—and they’re at the heart of what makes the Syracuse experience special.

On Giving Day, 41 student organizations are competing for a share of $3,500 in bonus funding through the Student Organization Challenge, rallying their communities to give, engage and show up. Winners are determined by unique donor count, social media engagement and on-campus spirit at Schine Student Center, so every gift, like and share genuinely moves the needle. The challenge dollars have been allocated via Senior Vice President Allen Groves and the Student Experience team.

Can’t find a group that speaks to you? A gift to the Student Experience Fund supports small grants that help all Syracuse students fully enjoy campus life. This is your chance to invest in the people and communities that make Íű±ŹĂĆ home.

The Center for the Creator Economy (CCE) is the first academic center of its kind on a U.S. college campus. Led jointly by the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and the Martin J. Whitman School of Management, the center reinforces the University’s commitment to bold, forward-looking academic leadership.

By aligning strengths in entrepreneurship, media, communications, athletics and digital infrastructure, the University is charting how higher education can prepare students for the 21st-century economy. The center will serve as a dynamic platform for teaching and learning; workshops and executive education; speaker series and showcases; on-campus incubators and makerspaces; research and thought leadership; and college athletics.

The fund will support many CCE initiatives, including The Vibe, a student-run creative agency providing students real-world experience through working with clients, and the ’CUSE Creator Crew, which will support creator and brand collaborations and hands-on student learning.

Thomas O’Brien ’25, who helped launch the new center, will co-host six live shows from the Schine Student Center throughout the day to showcase Íű±ŹĂĆ creators.

In May, the Hendricks Chapel Choir will perform on the African continent for the first time. The choir travels internationally every four to five years, providing unique experiential learning opportunities to its members. The choir has previously performed in China (2005); Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay (2009); Europe (Poland and Germany, including Auschwitz, 2013); Mexico (2018); and London and Lockerbie and Edinburgh, Scotland (2023). With plans to visit Oceania in 2030, the choir will have performed on every habitable continent by the 100th anniversary of the chapel.

The performances on the South African tour include Johannesburg (performing with the University of Johannesburg Choir); Soweto (Apartheid Museum and Mandela House); Pretoria (University of Pretoria-Tuks Camerata); Drakensberg (performing with the Drakensberg Boys Choir); Pietermaritzburg (UKZN School of Religious Studies) and Cape Town (performing with the St. George’s Cathedral Choir).

“When our graduating seniors consider the most impactful and meaningful moments of their time studying at Íű±ŹĂĆ, international performing tours always top the list,” says Jose “Peppie” Calvar, professor and chair of applied music and performance and director of choral activities in the Setnor School of Music in the College of Visual and Performing Arts and director of the Hendricks Chapel Choir. “Performing tours forge lifelong friendships and memories within our students. The experience of singing in front of an international audience confirms our shared humanity and our students’ place as citizens of a larger world and stewards of the world they’re shaping.”

Syracuse Giving Day is a great time for fans and alumni to support Íű±ŹĂĆ Athletics. Make a gift to the athletic department’s top priorities through Athletics Competitive Excellence. Your support pushes our 20 varsity athletic programs to compete for championships and elevates the student-athlete experience for more than 550 student-athletes on campus.

Visit the for the complete Giving Day experience.

Starting with sparks of curiosity, the Íű±ŹĂĆ student experience ignites passion that propels a lifetime of career success. A dedicated experience that intentionally fosters the transformation of curiosity into career, the newest student professional development experience is the 2026 Career Conference, Thursday, March 26, and Friday, March 27.

Success is found in post-graduation preparation when students begin early with self-reflection that defines interests, passions and curiosities. These then serve as a guiding compass to pursue professional development over a lifetime and through a series of taking small actions, often, to progress forward. Over time this culminates into a career.

“Career readiness does not have an on/off switch that activates in senior year. The theme of the conference, ‘Where curiosity becomes career,’ unites our students that may be unsure how to transform their interests and talent into a career, with welcoming experiences, skill-building and tangible next steps forward,” says . “The theme also serves as a reminder that students don’t have to have everything figured out. They just need to stay curious and have courage to take actions, now and in the future. From there? Everything falls into place.”

A Starting Line for Career Breakthroughs

Every student, regardless of class year or academic focus, is encouraged to participate in the 2026 Career Conference. At no cost, over two days, three different conference tracks will host 24 different sessions that are equally empowering and flexible.

“We want students to know that offerings intentionally meet the demands of their busy schedules and professional development goals, all alongside preparing for a world that is quickly evolving, is more complex, competitive and uncertain than it has been in a long time,” says Capozzi. “No matter what the future may hold, we are diligently working to stay ahead, keeping our students career competitive.”

Explore complete details, including registration information, on the . Space per offering may be limited and Handshake registration is encouraged by Thursday, March 19. Drop-ins will be available on a case-by-case basis. Cross-campus career teams emphasize that the most important preparation is attending with an open mind.

Reinventing Career Readiness: Replacing Awkward With Authentic

“Though we’re keeping students competitive, know that we are also hosting authentic, approachable and welcoming experiences,” says lead conference organizer . “We deliberately designed the awkward out, stripping away the performative pressure and replacing it with genuine connection and judgement-free learning opportunities.”

Event highlights include the following:

• Interactive skill-building and career development sessions
• Access to the expansive Orange network of employers and alumni
• Industry expert panel discussions and keynote speakers
• Personalized resume reviews and interview coaching
• Authentic networking across lunches and Coffee Chats

“Feelings of uncertainty is exactly why students should attend. Students don’t have to have everything figured out and this is a reminder that no one does,” says Child. “This conference offers permission to be in process.”

What do 70 to 80% of successful job seekers have in common? They didn’t just apply, they networked their way in.

Career Services director Adam Capozzi says the same principle holds for landing a summer internship, and the students who figure that out early have a serious edge.

His three non-negotiables: start now, customize every application and treat networking as a skill worth practicing, not an afterthought.

“In career services, we’re trying to prioritize soft skill development around networking and the importance of how to start conversations,” Capozzi says. “Informational interviews are low-pressure conversations where you have an opportunity to learn. You’re not asking for a job, you’re asking for knowledge.”

Make sure you’re using LinkedIn to the fullest, Capozzi says. Before an informational interview, check out their LinkedIn profile to see whether you both were part of the same club on campus. Then, you can use that as a soft opening to open the door to a meaningful conversation.

In this Q&A, Capozzi further explores what students should consider when applying for a summer internship and how can help them every step of the way.

Career Services Resources

• : Your 24/7 online career hub, showcasing all the programs, events, job opportunities and everything in between to enhance your professional skills.
• : A resume-building tool that helps set the tone for students who want to start building or enhancing their resume.
• : Lets you refine your elevator pitch by practicing different questions and scenarios to showcase your skills and improve the interview process.
• : A great tool for international students, showcasing the aspects of the H-1B Visa process and the search for global career opportunities.
• : Connects students with valuable individuals who are part of the Orange network to provide networking support and career guidance.
• : Links students with alumni who can serve as a sounding board as they explore career options.

When Jack Wyant ’28 stepped into the atrium of Newhouse 101 on a Sunday night in January, he looked out at 22 students gathered for the premiere filming of Syrvivor Syracuse’s 15th season. The balconies above were lined with alumni and production crew members. He clapped to signal the start.

“Welcome to Syrvivor Syracuse, season 15!” Wyant announced, and the room erupted with energy.

“I looked over at the other e-board [executive board] and I was like, ‘This is out of our hands now. We’ve done everything. The game has started,’” says Wyant, an acting major in the (VPA) and the season’s host. “There’s just an electric energy in the room. It’s like nothing else.”

As CBS’s “Survivor” celebrates its milestone 50th season premiering Wednesday, Feb. 25, Syracuse students have spent years building their own version of the reality competition. What started as a small student club has evolved into a full-scale production, complete with casting calls, immunity challenges, Tribal Councils and seasons released on .

The club has filmed 14 seasons and released seven publicly, with player applications now numbering 60 to 70 students each semester. Season 15, filming now through April, features 22 players and a twist mirroring the real show’s 50th season: seasoned players returning to compete a second time.

Alliances That Cross Academic Lines

Syrvivor attracts students from every corner of the University. Ericah Wakiaga ’27, a mechanical engineering major in the and the club’s executive producer and president, says the cross-disciplinary nature is one of the club’s greatest strengths.

“For my degree, every single class is an engineering class. I don’t have any electives, so I’m in class with the same people day in and day out,” Wakiaga says. “Joining a club like Syrvivor, with people outside my discipline, helps take my mind away from the world of STEM that I usually live in—that’s the best part of it.”

Justin Gomez ’26, an English and political science major in the and the , who won the 10th season and then returned for an All Stars-themed season, entered the game without knowing anyone. He immediately researched his fellow contestants on Instagram, mapping out connections in a notebook.

“It’s grown so much. If you’ve played or if you’ve been part of the production, you’re always trying to get your friends to do it,” Gomez says. The club has become a word-of-mouth phenomenon, with players recruiting friends from across majors and schools.

Lura James ’28, a music industry major in VPA, joined as a first-year student seeking connections outside performing arts. She made it to fifth place her first season, is one of the returning players for season 15 and says that all of her closest friends she met through Syrvivor.

“Playing that first time in freshman year was one of the most special times of my entire life. It was just so perfect,” James says.

More Than Just a Game

What sets Syrvivor apart from its television counterpart is the campus setting. Players aren’t isolated on an island—they’re texting constantly, strategizing between classes and sometimes running out of lectures or digging in the snow to search for hidden immunity idols, a key component of the game.

“It’s very hard [playing in a campus setting] because I can text, call whoever I want at any time of the day,” Gomez says. “You’re not secluded in your own tribe; you can reach out to other people in different tribes, so building that connection with them was also very, very important.”

Wakiaga discovered that the social dynamics mirror the real “Survivor” more than she expected. “I feel like the biggest allure of the show ‘Survivor’ is the depiction of deep social connections in spite of strenuous and uncertain circumstances,” she says. “The club is pretty accurate as compared to the real-life show—we’ve had some really deep, emotional moments, last season especially.”

Syrvivor has evolved to build community over a shared love of competition. In past seasons, eliminated players disappeared from both the show and the club. Now, voted-out contestants can join the production or editing teams, contributing challenge ideas and staying connected to the group.

The club also created a mental health chair to support eliminated contestants through the emotional aftermath of being voted out of the game.

Hands-On Production Experience

Behind every episode is an enormous student-run production operation. Wyant, who serves as both host and executive producer, spent two days conducting 30-minute Zoom interviews with each player to review rules. “We respect the sanctity of the game and what it represents, so we want it to be held in the fairest way possible,” Wyant says. “And we take cheating very seriously.”

Most filming happens after 10 p.m. to accommodate players’ schedules, often running until 1 a.m. But everyone is united in mission through their love of the game, and the experience translates across disciplines.

Wakiaga applies her engineering mindset to analyzing vote probabilities and player behavior. Wyant draws on his theater training to craft story arcs and dramatic tension. James gained editing skills and networking contacts, connecting to her music industry career goals. Gomez used his political science background to analyze how others were playing the game and politicking with their fellow contestants.

For students who grew up watching “Survivor,” the club offers a chance to live out their reality TV dreams without waiting for a casting call from CBS. And for some current and former club members who have real-life ambitions to compete on the island, Syrvivor provides invaluable experience.

“You are going to see me on that island one day,” Wyant says. “I 100% guarantee it.”

To learn more about Syrvivor or get involved, visit the organization’s , or .

Demonstrating a steadfast commitment to the values of service and unity, the community completed a series of collaborative initiatives designed to support local families and students during the fall and holiday seasons.

“Greeksgiving” Holiday Meals

On Nov. 19, all University Greek councils joined together for “Greeksgiving,” a collective effort to address food insecurity in the local community. The councils provided turkey donations to three major local organizations: the Samaritan Center, Rescue Mission and Salvation Army. This joint contribution ensures that more individuals in the Syracuse area can enjoy a celebratory meal with loved ones, reflecting the Greek community’s shared dedication to generosity and kindness.

“Between service and philanthropy, giving back is really at the core of who we are as councils. We know the holidays can be a stressful time for families in Syracuse, especially those dealing with food insecurity, so we wanted to help provide something that could make their season a little lighter and brighter,” says Alexis Rouson ’26, president of the .

The idea for a “Greeksgiving” initiative started around 20 years ago with the Delta Zeta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., with turkey donations to several community centers in Syracuse. Over time, it grew into a tradition where all Greek Life organizations could unite around service, especially during a time of year centered on gratitude.

“Projects like this bring out the best of Greek Life. Every council talks about values like service and community, but collaborating on this drive allows us to actually live those values together,” Rouson says.

Greek and Give Initiative

Throughout October, the , the and Kappa Delta Pi (National Professional Association and Honor Society for Educators) partnered for a monthlong drive to support Van Duyn Elementary School in the Syracuse City School District. Members across the three organizations collaborated to collect essential items, including school supplies, school bags, T-shirts, Bombas socks and healthy snacks.

On Nov. 13, representatives delivered these donations to more than 350 students in grades pre-K through 5th grade. The project successfully met basic student needs while strengthening inter-council relationships and highlighting the positive impact of collective service on local youth education.

Holiday Toy Drive

The University Greek community also concluded its annual Holiday Toy Drive at the end of the fall semester. This long-standing initiative is a collaborative effort between the University’s Greek Council and local partners, including the law firm Hancock Estabrook, LLP. This year’s drive focused on providing gifts for every student in the Pre-K and kindergarten classes at Delaware Elementary School.

The toy drive was a true team effort, bringing together all 60 of the University’s fraternity and sorority chapters to provide gifts to over 140 students in need. After Greek Ambassadors hand-wrapped and labeled every gift, 12 members of the executive board loaded up five vehicles to deliver the toys to the school.

“These projects reflect the true spirit of service, compassion and collaboration that defines our Greek community,” said Carrie Abbott, director of student involvement and leadership development at Íű±ŹĂĆ.

Despite a districtwide snow day, the gifts were still delivered as planned. The Greek Council quickly coordinated with school staff to drop off the donations and organize them by homeroom in the school’s cafeteria and main office. Despite the change in plans, the team ensured the gifts were ready and waiting as a surprise for the students when they returned the following week.

Pre-K and kindergarten students at Delaware Elementary School gathered for a picture with Santa Claus the day they received their gifts from the toy drive.

Story by Student Experience Communications Intern Kate Jackson ’26

The Lunar New Year—also known as Chinese New Year or the Spring Festival—marks one of the world’s most widely celebrated holidays, observed by as many as 2 billion people across Asian cultures. On Feb. 17, the Year of the Snake officially gives way to the Year of the Horse, a symbol of energy, enthusiasm and independence in the Chinese Zodiac.

Throughout the remainder of February, opportunities will be offered to celebrate this cultural milestone, giving the University community a chance to experience traditions that have been passed down for generations—from sharing meals and creating crafts to enjoying performances and exchanging red envelopes filled with blessings for the year ahead. Here is what’s planned in the weeks ahead.

Friday, Feb. 13: School of Architecture Lunar New Year Celebration

A will be held in Slocum Hall from 5 to 6:30 p.m., organized by international students in the School of Architecture and Dean Michael Speaks. The Slocum Hall atrium will be transformed into a festival-like atmosphere where students can take a break and engage in such activities as knot tying, calligraphy, fortune scratch-offs and a photo booth.

Food, chocolate coins and traditional candies, and tea with Dean Speaks will be served. A series of short presentations about East Asian culture and architecture, featuring School of Architecture faculty, is also planned to begin at 5:30 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 16: Asian American Journalists Association Celebration

The Asian American Journalists Association will hold its in 303 Newhouse 1 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The evening will include fun activities, delicious food and more! All are welcome to attend.

Tuesday, Feb. 17: Lunar New Year Craft Night

The Center for International Services will host its from 5 to 7 p.m. at 310 Walnut Place. Participants can join in crafts, build community and then head to one of three dining centers for a themed dinner celebrating the Chinese New Year.

Tuesday, Feb. 17: Dining Center Dumplings

During dinner service on Feb. 17, at Sadler, Shaw and Ernie Davis Dining Centers, including vegetable, beef and vegetable, edamame, pork shumai, chicken lemongrass and chicken teriyaki flavors.

Saturday, Feb. 21: Chinese United Student and Scholar Association Spring Festival Celebration

The Chinese United Student and Scholar Association will host its from 5:30 to 9 p.m. in Goldstein Auditorium. This event is both a talent showcase and a cultural celebration, providing a platform for students to share their cultures and talents with others.

Wednesday, Feb. 25: alpha Kappa Delta Phi Red Envelope and Zodiac Craft Workshop

alpha Kappa Delta Phi will host a from 7 to 8 p.m. in Lyman Hall. Participants can learn about Lunar New Year traditions while decorating red envelopes and creating zodiac-themed crafts. The event celebrates cultural appreciation through hands-on activities and provides a welcoming space to learn, connect and express creativity. Open to all!

Every four years, millions of people around the world find themselves glued to their televisions, watching athletes slide massive stones across sheets of ice while teammates frantically sweep in front of them at the Olympics.

What makes curling so appealing?

Members of the explain what entices people into the sport that is part ice, part strategy and part finesse.

“There’s just something special about curling. The novelty and the silliness of the sport draw you in. Every four years we just have to watch curling at the Olympics,” says Adam Wingert ’27, a member of the Íű±ŹĂĆ club curling team and fourth-year architecture student in the .

“Growing up, I would watch curling at the Olympics with my parents and I often thought, ‘Yeah, I could do that,’” says teammate Alex Reid ’26, who is studying computer science in the .

Before this year’s Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina, Italy, Wingert and Reid share what viewers can expect and invite community members to try their own hand at some of the team’s open lessons.

The Basics of Curling

Traditional curling features four-person teams taking their turn sending a massive stone down a thin sheet of ice while teammates frantically clean and sweep as the stone slides towards its target, known as a house.

Sweepers utilize a broom to melt the top surface of the ice as the stone is hurtling toward its target. But don’t let the name fool you: there are no bristles on these brooms, just a thin fabric covering over a foam pad.

Sweepers use their brooms to control the stone’s speed and trajectory by reducing friction with the ice—making it slide farther, curl less or curl more depending on strategy.

Stones can be used to either knock an opponent’s stone out of the house, or to position it strategically in the house to amass points. Teams score points for each stone closer to the center of the house than their opponent’s best stone.

Debunking Misconceptions

Despite competing on ice, the athletes don’t wear skates when they throw the stone. Instead, Orange student-athletes either wear sliders or specialized nonstick shoes made from Teflon that provide grip and traction.

Once the stone has been released, Reid says another misconception—that the stone will automatically go where you intend it to—is also quickly debunked.

“Playing conditions on the ice change over time,” Reid says. “By the nature of the sport, the same exact shot is not going to wind up in the same position as the competition advances. Curling gets down to the minutiae, and every moment has to be perfect.”

What to Know About Syracuse Curling

The Syracuse Curling Club has nine co-ed student-athletes, practices at the Utica Curling Club and competes in tournaments (called bonspiels) as part of both the regional Grand National Curling Club College League and USA Curling. At each competition, teams earn points based on their performance that determine which schools advance into the National Championship.

Syracuse recently placed second at the Yale Curling Club’s SuperSpiel tournament in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and is preparing for the Northeast Regionals tournament this weekend in Utica, New York. If Syracuse places in the top two teams at regionals, it will automatically qualify for the 2026 National Championship, March 12-15, in Schenectady, New York.

“We’re able to come out and represent Syracuse and be part of the club’s proud history,” Reid says. “To be able to say I made my mark is a really special feeling.”

After each tournament, a Spirit of Curling award is presented to the team that best embodies sportsmanship and professionalism while helping to grow the sport. Teams will then stack their brooms on the table and celebrate the end of a hard-fought game by getting to know a little bit more about their opponents.

“That speaks to the broader culture of curling,” Wingert says. “Curling is a competitive sport, and we want to win, but being part of this tight-knit community comes first. Curling is about doing better every single time and being the best person you can be.”

‘I’m Part of Something Bigger Than Myself’

Determined to spread their love of curling across campus, the club team runs free learn to curl classes at the Tennity Ice Skating Pavilion on South Campus. At these sessions, which normally occur in September and October, all the necessary equipment is provided, free of charge.

That’s how Reid became involved and now he’s a key contributor to the team that has its sights set on representing the University at the upcoming national tournament.

“Once I tried the sport, what made me stick around was this understanding that I was part of something that was bigger than myself,” Reid says.

Wingert, who fell in love with the sport when he was a child growing up in Southern Ontario, Canada, says nearly every member of the club team had zero curling experience before coming to campus.

“The learn to curl sessions are great because it helps us recruit for the club while spreading our love of curling on campus,” Wingert says.

For more information or to fill out an interest form, visit the .

After successfully accomplishing a thorough assessment process, the Barnes Center at The Arch has achieved renewal accreditation by the (AAAHC). As a repeat recipient, this continued benchmark of success further distinguishes the health and wellness team through its adherence to rigorous standards of student-focused care and safety.

“This AAAHC reaccreditation marks a significant milestone in the continued growth and success of the Barnes Center at The Arch,”  says Cory Wallack, associate vice president of student health and wellness. “Guided by the leadership of Lisa GreenPope, director of operations, and Kathleen Coughlin, director of health care, this recognition reflects the high level of excellence the Barnes Center consistently demonstrates and its unwavering pursuit of continued improvement.”

Status as an organization that has earned accreditation means the Barnes Center at The Arch has met the highest level of nationally recognized standards for the provision of quality health care set by AAAHC. Highlights that supported the team’s reaccreditation include evidence-based clinical practice guidelines, ongoing performance improvement strategies and an effective organizational infrastructure aimed at providing safe and effective care.

For more information or questions, please  or call 315.443.8000.

The application process for the , two all-University representatives of the graduating class, has officially opened. Students who are currently juniors, graduating in May 2027, who are enrolled in undergraduate programs and will be on campus the entirety of their senior year are encouraged to apply.

“Serving as a senior class marshal is about leading with purpose and celebrating the shared experiences that connect students across Íű±ŹĂĆ. They are a reflection of Orange pride defined by involvement, and community, in addition to excellence inside and outside of the classroom,” says Sheriah N. Dixon, associate vice president for the student experience, dean of students and chair of the selection committee. “We invite juniors who are passionate about Íű±ŹĂĆ and the student experience to help shape the legacy of the Class of 2027 by applying for these prestigious roles.”

Senior Class Marshal Highlights

In this role, senior class marshals:

• lead their graduating class during Commencement;
• help to recommend the Commencement speaker;
• participate in alumni networking; and
• offer insights and suggestions about their student experience during a meeting with a senior University administrator; and
• represent their class at Universitywide functions and more.

Please visit the for more information about the role, qualifications, to apply or to recommend a student. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, Feb. 18.

For questions, contact Tracy Pierce at tmstark@syr.edu or call 315.443.3514.

invites undergraduate students to share insight into their student experience and enhance the future of the University. Feedback on academics, campus life, finances and co-curricular activities directly helps to shape programs and resources.

“Hearing directly from students is the best way for Íű±ŹĂĆ to know what really needs to improve,” says Safiyyah Subhan-Khan ’26, a student in the School of Architecture. “I took the survey because it gives us an outlet to share what’s working and what needs to change.”

Below, six questions and answers about the survey:

1. How do students access the Orange Survey? Students have received a unique link (and friendly reminders) to the survey in their Íű±ŹĂĆ email (@syr.edu).
2. How long does it take to complete? About 10 minutes.
3. Are students compensated for completing the survey? Students who complete the survey will be entered into random drawings for several different prizes including:
   • $75 gift cards for Amazon, Target and Etsy
   • Early Fall 2026 course registration
4. What will responses be used for? Responses are valuable because they capture student voices and feedback, which in turn provide essential information to inform and guide the development of student-focused programs, services and resources at the University.
5. What are the confidentiality details? All responses are kept confidential; reporting of the results will be done in aggregate.
6. When does the survey close? Students are encouraged to complete it as soon as possible. The survey closes Sunday, Dec. 7.

The Orange community is encouraged to remind undergraduate students to participate in the survey.

“If I’m going through something on campus, good or bad, I’m sure I’m not the only one…” Jayeola Oluokun ’24, College of Arts and Sciences says. “[Completing the survey] lets me help my community out, so why wouldn’t I say something?”

For questions or to learn more, please visit the 

Story by Julia Seitz, student experience division graduate assistant